Mentors and how have they assisted you in your career: Jim Higgins, Executive Vice President World Service, American Express: Hope is not a strategy. Even large, global companies can rally around common goals with the appropriate plan and commitment to excellence. If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.

Christine Owens, Senior Vice President Communication and Brand Management, United Parcel Service retired: ‘There is no cavalry coming to save the day….outcome is up to you. Manage your life like you manage your career.Don’t wait to do the job until you get the job.’

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date? The ability to leverage my experience deploying best practices in customer care and relationship management at a top global brand at C&S to expand and deepen relationships with our customers.

Most challenging part of your job: The competitive landscape in our industry is changing rapidly, one of the largest challenges we face is how we partner with our customers to provide best-in-class supply chain solutions. This requires us to collaboratively focus on strategic planning and be relentless in evaluating our performance.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be interested in everything; figuring out what you don’t want to do is as important as figuring out what you do want to do. Spend time building your personal brand; define what you’d like to be known for and make it a reality.

Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, reading, music, and outdoor activities

Women of Influence

Women of Influence in the Food Industry is brought to you by The Griffin Report, and is supported by individuals and companies throughout the food industry who understand the importance of recognizing achievement and innovation. Sponsors are welcomed to help continue and support the mission of Women of Influence in the Food Industry.